After 30 Years in Captivity, Beautiful Bear Gets Fresh Start

Of all the animal rescue stories we hear about, this one will forever have a place in our hearts. Fifi the Bear's story is sadly not uncommon, but the difficult nature of her 30-year journey is, as well as the uplifting outcome that will touch your heart. Go grab the tissues now, and then you'll be ready to meet Fifi.

More than 30 years ago, a bear cub named Fifi arrived at a Pennsylvania roadside zoo. For years, she lived with other bears in captivity at the zoo, where they were forced to perform tricks--such as standing on their hind legs--for crowds of people. But after the roadside zoo closed its doors more than 20 years ago, Fifi languished in a tiny, rusted cage. She was thin, dirty, and tired, and she suffered from painful arthritis.

But in July 2015, Fifi got a new chance at life. Rescue workers from PETA and The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Colorado transported her to the facility, where she was placed in a vast habitat and received expert, loving care.

After just five months in the sanctuary, Fifi looks like an entirely different animal! Her transformation to a vibrant, healthy animal is shocking. And the best part? For the first time in her long life, Fifi is hibernating in a new, comfy den this winter.